Did you know only about 25% of kids currently get the recommended amount of activity?† Keeping your kids active isn’t always easy. Between screen time, busy schedules, and uncooperative weather, it can be a challenge. So, what can families do? Good news: we’ve rounded up some fun, easy ways to help your kid get moving and stay active!
Why are exercise and physical activity important for kids?
Exercise and physical activity are important for kids, as their (and our) bodies are meant to be in motion. There are so many benefits for kids to be active, here are just a few:
- Builds strong bones and muscles
- Improves sleep
- Reduces stress and improves well-being
- Helps children focus at school
- Helps to prevent chronic diseases, like obesity, heart disease, and diabetes, later in life
How long should a child exercise a day?
The American Academy of Pediatrics recommends:
- Kids ages 3-5 years should get at least 3 hours of physical activity per day. This does not have to be done at once—it’s beneficial for children to be active throughout the day.
- Kids 6 years and older should get at least 60 minutes of moderate- or vigorous-intensity physical activity every day.
What type of exercise is best for kids?
The best exercise for kids is whatever gets them moving! Rather than focus on a specific “exercise” for your kiddo, think about adding movement to their day. It’s just that simple. Whether it’s a structured activity like team sports or casual playtime in the park, every minute of active time counts!
What are easy and fun exercises for kids?
There are lots of great fun ways to get kids up and moving. Here are just a few ideas to get you going, with indoor and outdoor options:
5 indoor exercises for kids
- Jump rope: Jumping rope is a fantastic option for raising kids’ heart rate and teaching eye-hand coordination. Younger kids can use jump roping to practice their counting as well.
- Dance party: Put on some fun music and get everyone dancing. Set up a playlist of dance music favorites, clear some floor space, and join in. Kids love to see their adults having fun too.
- Set up an obstacle course: Set up an indoor obstacle course, with things to jump over, crawl through, skip along, and more. You can use cushions, pillows, chairs, hula hoops, scarves, small balls, and bean bags as some of the obstacles to work around.
- Bounce on small trampoline: Small indoor trampolines allow a great way for kids to bounce and get their exercise in. Some have handles for the kids to hold onto while they jump. Supervise kids on the trampoline to make sure they are being safe.
- Simon Says: Playing Simon Says is a great activity to play with your kiddos, or for children to play with each other. Have the leader call out active things to do like hopping, balancing, and jumping jacks.
5 outdoor activities for kids
- Bike riding: Bike riding is a great way to get moving at all ages. It can also be a great way to explore areas as a family.
- Family walk: A family walk provides a chance to reconnect after a busy day. Check out the flowers blooming, say hi to the neighbors’ pets, or include a game of looking for specific colors for the younger ones.
- Scooter ride: Kick scooters provide great exercise and are lots of fun! These self-propelled scooters allow kids to use their own leg power to move faster than walking. Choose a smooth flat surface, as it makes for a nicer ride for the kids.
- Kids vs. adult races: Set up races of hopping, skipping, or running. This allows them to have competition and doesn’t end up with kids fighting with each other. You can adjust how fast you are with how old your kid is and how much you want to let your kid win.
- Play tag: Playing tag is a great way to sneak in some running with your kids. This type of exercise game lets kids have fun, and they will get some running added to their day.
No matter what activity you choose, it can be helpful to be positive about physical activity overall and support your child’s interests in what they enjoy doing.
Supporting children’s nutrient needs with a daily supplement
For a tasty way to take a break from activity time, check out L’il Critters™ Gummy Vites. Gummy Vites multivitamin gummy not only tastes great but provides 11 essential nutrients to support your kiddo’s health and development.*
Exercise for kids: A fun part of any day
Physical activity daily is important for kids, but don’t forget, you need to be active too! Keeping your body in motion helps you feel great and keep up with your kids. Exercise is a fun way to spend time together as a family. Whether through play, exploration, or shared family experiences, L’il Critters™ is here to support your little ones every step of the way.
Brought to you by the L’il Critters™ nutrition experts.
†American Academy of Pediatrics: https://www.healthychildren.org/English/healthy-living/fitness/Pages/Making-Fitness-a-Way-of-Life.aspx